The Out Entrepreneur – EP. 49

Freedom • Adventure • Create

Rhodes Perry

show notes:

Rhodes Perry is a fierce, out entrepreneur.

His journey, however, was not always an easy one. Adolescence was difficult for Rhodes due to gender dysphoria. Overall, conflicting messages between the media and social cues made life as a young person extremely confusing. The negative light shed on the LGBT community in Rhodes' hometown only made matters worse. All things considered, Rhodes was confused and unsure where to turn.

Embracing His Identity

During college, Rhodes came out as a lesbian. At the time, they were at a very Catholic, private, college. In light of this discovery, Rhodes believed their years of struggle were due to sexual orientation. As a proud feminist, Rhodes became involved in the National Organization For Women and participated fully in International Women’s Day. Overall, the acceptance they felt allowed them to truly be themself.

Rhodes soon discovered, however, that the issue wasn't sexual orientation. Rhodes wasn't a lesbian. Rhode, as it turned out, was a man. The years of gender dysphoria finally made sense and he began to publically identify as transgender. Suddenly everything made sense.

Making An Impact

Rhodes now uses his personal experiences as the foundation of his business. Rhodes Perry Consulting focuses on cultivating an environment of inclusivity. In addition, he hosts a podcast called The Out Entrepreneur (listen to The Brave Files host, Heather Vickery’s episode). The podcast aims to support transgender people and members of the LGBT community who step authentically into being an “out” business owner. To Rhodes, creating a place of belonging for all people is what life is really about. Likewise, offering assistance to organizations focused on inclusivity is of the utmost importance!

Connect and learn more about Rhodes and the work he does

Additionally, Rhodes is an author! Check out his book, Belonging at Work, here.

***For a detailed list of LGBTQ+ Definitions, check out this list.***

A note about gender pronouns

It’s common practice when referring to a transgender person, to use non-binary pronouns when talking about them pre-transition. It is always acceptable, even preferred, to ask someone what their pronouns are and how they want to be referred.

Top Takeaways:

Gender is beyond the body.

Equity is for everyone.

Differences make an organization strong.

You are the architect of your own life.

Giving Is Good!

In light of Rhodes’ experiences, he fully supports the National Center for Transgender Equality. The organization works to encourage acceptance of transgender people through advocating for policy change, ending discrimination, and creating opportunity. Rhodes especially appreciates the organization’s careful use of resources as they change people’s lives. Learn more about the National Center for Transgender Equality and how you can help here.

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